May 6, 2025
Belden House & Mews
Reflecting the Unique Heritage of a Historical Landmark
By Christopher Stella
Photos by Read McKendree
“We want to hold a mirror up to the region, and help guests find their way through it in a way that is comfortable and enticing,” says Anthony Champalimaud, owner of Belden House & Mews, the Litchfield luxury hotel that opened in March 2025. From its artisanal touches to personalized services, it presents a gorgeous reflection of a community steeped in history and creativity.
Initially built in 1888 as a residence for Dr. Charles Belden, Belden House sits on three acres among the historic mansions of North Street in Litchfield. It is now owned and operated by the team behind Troutbeck in Amenia, N.Y., an expansive 250-acre estate hotel, and recipient of a prestigious Michelin Key. “The properties share a historical DNA and the same perspective on hospitality,” says Champalimaud. “If Troutbeck is a country house hotel, Belden House & Mews is its High Street counterpart.”
Upon entering Belden House, visitors will find a cozy foyer flanked by an elegant library. Beyond is a spacious living room illuminated by large bay windows, a light-filled dining room, and a stunning bar crafted by White Dog Woodworking. Guests who dine at Belden are treated to seasonal cuisine by Chef Tyler Heckman—an alumnus of New York City’s El Quijote, Ferris, and Le Turtle, and a Connecticut native—who builds his menu from regionally sourced vegetables, protein, and especially seafood.
Upstairs, the 10 bedrooms possess stunning historical elements, such as original moldings, fixtures, and tiled fireplaces—and updated bathrooms with heated floors, marble vanities, and products by Wildsmith, a UK-based, cruelty-free luxury skincare line. The top floor boasts a 2,100 square-foot suite with its own dining room, and a private balcony that overlooks the town.
Each room, the creation of Champalimaud Design, is textured with distinctive wainscotting, luxurious upholstery, and custom grasscloth wallpaper by twenty2 wallpaper, its patterns based on design elements found throughout the house. There is something to be discovered in every nook. For example, the signatures of the building’s original craftsmen—found on the woodwork during the renovation—are reproduced on the walls of select rooms. “The property and hospitality experience need to remain interesting; that’s essential to us,” notes Champalimaud.
As Belden House evokes Litchfield’s Victorian past, the Mews, set on the grounds behind it, reflects Litchfield’s modernist era (in the mid-20th century, luminaries including Marcel Breuer, Alexander Calder, and Eliot Noyes were drawn to the town, which became the setting for much of their iconic work). Built in 1959, it now contains 21 guest rooms, seven of which are accessed via their own private terraces. The rooms nod to the town’s design heritage— for example, featuring Breuer chairs—as well as contemporary local artisans such as Dumais Made, whose fixtures illuminate them. The Mews also contains Bathhouse, a wellness center featuring fitness equipment, a sauna and steam room, and an impressive Japanese Ofuro tub for hydrotherapies. The facility offers acupuncture, massage, and other services to guests by appointment only, to maintain the intimacy of their experience. Just beyond the Mews, visitors can take advantage of the seasonal outdoor pool.
Guests are indeed well-cared for, having access to optional butler service 16 hours each day, valet service, and a BMW they can drive, to explore locally. “You are met at the front step when you arrive, and looked after throughout your stay,” says Champalimaud, who hopes guests will venture beyond the property to explore the region’s beauty. “A good hotel provides more than a bed, meal, and luxurious stay; it builds relationships and serves the community,” he continues. “We want guests to leave with an appreciation for this part of the world, and a desire to come back.”
Belden House & Mews, 31 North St., Litchfield
